Evaluation of lithium chloride-diatomaceous silica systems for gas chromatography of petroleum sulphur compounds

Abstract

In this study Chromosorb W (diatomaceous silica) as such and also coated with lithium chloride was evaluated as column packing for the gas chromatographic separation of petroleum sulphur compounds. The Chromosorb W by itself was found to be of little value but quite efficient separations could be obtained after coating with lithium chloride, especially if the chromosorb had been acid washed before coating. Unlike other completely inorganic materials that have been used as column packings, the materials evaluated in this work required temperatures no higher than those required for separations on conventional column packings that contain organic liquids. Inorganic column packings are of great value for the investigation of high boiling point materials, like those found in low-grade crude oils, because they are thermally stable.